CISM – International Centre for Mechanical Sciences

International Centre for Mechanical Sciences (CISM)

CISM, established in Udine in 1968, is a unique institution in the European scientific landscape. Inspired by Luigi Sobrero’s vision of transcending political and cultural boundaries to unite researchers, it has evolved into an international center of excellence for exchange, research, and advanced training in the field of mechanical sciences, as well as in interdisciplinary domains such as robotics, biomechanics, environmental engineering, and related areas (mathematics, computer science, artificial intelligence).

The mission of CISM is to disseminate knowledge and foster innovation through an open-science approach that emphasizes collaboration, inclusion, and diversity. Each year, the Center organizes courses, advanced schools, and symposia that attract leading scientists from around the world, thereby offering young researchers the opportunity to engage directly with eminent academics and distinguished professionals. The International Scientific Council safeguards the quality of the programs and ensures an environment that fosters free, interdisciplinary, and authoritative exchange.

CISM’s hallmarks include its tradition of excellence in education and training, which has drawn generations of scholars from all over the world, together with prestigious collaborations with leading universities and research institutes at the global level. Its scientific contributions are evidenced by more than 600 volumes published by Springer, reflecting the Center’s capacity to anticipate crucial scientific challenges: from seismic modelling, developed in response to the 1976 Friuli earthquake, to contemporary advances in robotics, bioengineering, and materials science.

Located in the historic Palazzo del Torso in Udine, CISM is not merely a center for training, but also a cultural institution where science, the local territory, and the community intersect. Awards and distinctions, such as the CISM–Città di Udine International Research Fellowship, have further consolidated its role as an international ambassador of knowledge.

CISM is housed in the historic Palazzo del Torso, located in the center of Udine, and is equipped with facilities for international-level training and research.

The Center features two lecture halls for conferences and courses, with capacities of 65 and 45 seats respectively, as well as rooms for meetings and working groups.

Adjacent to the Palazzo is the Guest House, which provides accommodation for lecturers and a selected number of participants.

The technologies in place support the delivery of courses and workshops in on-site, online, and hybrid formats, ensuring broad accessibility and fostering interaction among scholars, researchers, and professionals at the international level.

Opportunities for Students and Researchers:

• Scholarships for young researchers to participate in international courses, seminars, and workshops.
• Access to intensive courses and specialized workshops in mechanical sciences and interdisciplinary fields (robotics, biomechanics, environmental engineering, etc.).
• Participation in on-site, online, and hybrid formats, ensuring broad international accessibility.
• Opportunities for networking and scientific exchange with internationally renowned lecturers and researchers.
• Logistical support and accommodation at the CISM Guest House.

Facilities Supporting the Hosting of International Students and Researchers:

• Guest House adjacent to the Palazzo del Torso, providing accommodation for lecturers and participants.
• Classrooms and meeting rooms equipped with multimedia technologies for courses, workshops, and seminars.
• Dedicated logistical and administrative support for international students and researchers.
• An intimate environment and historical-cultural setting that encourage dialogue and the exchange of ideas.
• Opportunities to participate in courses and workshops in on-site, online, and hybrid formats